5 tips to remove the saltiness from food

If your food turns out salty, there are several simple and effective tricks that can help you save your dish without having to start over. Here we share some practical tips to reduce the saltiness of your meals and restore flavor balance.

READ: Why we shouldn't eat bananas on an empty stomach. 1. Add more unsalted ingredients.

One of the simplest ways to correct excess salt is to bulk up your dish with unseasoned ingredients. For example:

• If you cooked rice or soup, add more water, vegetables, or pre-salted uncooked rice.
• If it's a stew, you can add more potatoes, carrots, squash, or even unseasoned meat. This will dilute the salt without affecting the dish's consistency.

2.- Use raw potato as a “salt sponge”

Here's a popular trick: place one or two peeled and halved raw potatoes into the dish while it continues to cook. The potato will absorb some of the excess salt. Let it boil for 15 to 20 minutes and remove it before serving. This method works best for soups, broths, and stews.

3.- Add a sweet or sour touch

Flavor balance depends on more than just salt. Sometimes, a touch of acidity or sweetness can mask excess salt:

• Try a few drops of lemon juice or white vinegar (ideal for meat, rice, or lentil dishes).
• Add a pinch of sugar, honey, or even a little applesauce if it goes well with the recipe. Be careful not to overdo it; it's just about leveling the flavor, not sweetening it.

4.- Incorporate dairy products

In certain dishes, especially sauces, pastas, or creams, dairy products help soften excess salt. You can add:

• A splash of milk or cream.
• A little natural yogurt or unsalted cheese (like ricotta or cottage cheese). This trick works great in Italian-style dishes or creamy casseroles.

5.- Serve with salt-free foods

Another option is to not modify the dish itself, but rather pair it with something salt-free to balance each bite. Some ideas:

• Unsalted bread or tortillas.
• White rice or boiled potatoes.
• Steamed vegetables.

In this way, the excess salt in the main dish is compensated by the side dishes.

READ: Any Mexicans? These are the most consumed dishes in the world

A savory meal doesn't have to ruin your day. With a few simple adjustments, you can restore balance and enjoy your dish without having to start over. These tips will not only save you time in the kitchen, but will also make you a more flavor-conscious cook.

BB